why are bunnies associated with easter

Bunnies are associated with Easter primarily because they have long been symbols of fertility and new life, which align with the themes of spring and rebirth celebrated by Easter. This connection dates back to pre-Christian, pagan traditions where rabbits represented fertility due to their high reproduction rates. The Easter Bunny tradition likely originated from 17th- century German folklore involving an egg-laying hare called "Osterhase" or "Oschter Haws," brought to America by German immigrants in the 18th century. The hare would lay colorful eggs as gifts to well-behaved children, merging pagan fertility symbols with Christian celebrations of resurrection and new life. Over time, the Easter Bunny evolved into a figure delivering not only eggs but also chocolates and toys during Easter. The association of eggs with Easter is due to eggs symbolizing new life and rebirth, fitting the Easter theme of resurrection. Though rabbits do not lay eggs, the pairing of these symbols became natural since both represent fertility and the renewal of life in spring. In summary, the Easter Bunny represents fertility and rebirth from pagan spring festivals, merged with Christian Easter traditions celebrating Jesus' resurrection, and was popularized in the United States by German immigrant customs involving an egg-laying hare delivering eggs to children.